Our first trip to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia was a long layover, so we only had one day for sightseeing. We made the most of it – however, we knew we missed some of the best places to visit in KL.
It took a few years, but we finally made a return trip to discover the top Kuala Lumpur tourist spots and distinctive KL neighborhoods.
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To help other travelers experience the city like we did, we created a Kuala Lumpur Itinerary that features the top things to do in 3 days!
Our 3 Day Kuala Lumpur Itinerary
Along with sharing detailed information about the places to visit, we provide a Kuala Lumpur sights map and some recommended KL tour options.
Save, Pin or Bookmark our Kuala Lumpur Itinerary to plan your visit to KL!
Day 1 in Kuala Lumpur
Start off by experiencing some of the best things to do in KL. This includes the famous temple in a cave and one of the world’s tallest towers.
Batu Caves Temple
Before you begin exploring the KL city center, set off on a half day trip to the spectacular Batu Caves.
These caverns were formed in the limestone hills millions of years ago, but in 1890 a sacred statue of Sri Murugan Swami was erected in the cave. Today, it’s called Temple Cave.
Being just a short trip from central Kuala Lumpur, it is visited by people of all faiths and as a pilgrimage site for Hindus.
Below the entrance is a gigantic golden statue of Lord Murugan, to whom the Batu Cave temple is dedicated. At 140-feet tall, it was the world’s tallest Murugan statue until 2022.
Near its base is the staircase – of 272 steps – that leads up to the entrance. As you ascend, local long-tailed macaque monkeys will likely accompany you!
Inside, several shrines line the rock walls. During our visit, we were fortunate to witness a special blessing. You are free to explore the interior and the various religious icons and natural formations.
Batu Caves can be reached in 30 minutes by train from KL Sentral. Those who would rather travel with a private guide can book this top-rated excursion.
Petronas Towers and Kuala Lumpur City Centre
The iconic Petronas Towers are one of the top places to visit in Kuala Lumpur! Also known as the Petronas Twin Towers, they ranked as the tallest buildings in the world from 1998 until 2004.
At that time their height of 1,483 feet was surpassed by Taipei 101. Petronas are still the World’s Tallest Twin Towers.
More than 60% of Malaysia’s population is Muslim and the exterior design mimics Islamic art forms. The double-deck Skybridge connects the two towers on the 41st and 42nd floors.
Both KL Twin Towers are used for office space, but at their base is the upscale shopping mall, Suria KLCC, and the Petronas Philharmonic Concert Hall.
You can ascend to the 41st story Skybridge and the 86th floor observation deck. Petronas Tower tickets should be bought in advance online.
The interior features interactive displays detailing information about the skyscrapers and views.
As one of the top attractions in Kuala Lumpur, make sure you get the perfect photo! The best spots are from the end of the fountains on the northwest side and from KLCC Park on the southeast side.
Sunset Drinks with a View
There are quite a few rooftop bars in Kuala Lumpur to choose from. Popular venues include the award-winning SkyBar at Traders, Canopy Lounge, WET at the W and Helipad KL.
Unsurprisingly, we were most intrigued by Heli Lounge. Here you are completely exposed and can take in unobstructed views from the otherwise drab Menara KH building.
Symphony Fountain Lightshow at KL City Centre Park
KLCC Park is the perfect place to watch the Symphony Fountain Show The 50-acre garden features tropical foliage, walking trails and a man-made lake.
From the water’s edge, just opposite the entrance to Suria KLCC, watch as the fountains put on a dazzling display reaching 350 feet. At 8, 9 and 10pm they are accompanied by music and lights!
Dinner near Petronas Towers
There are several highly-rated KL restaurants in the area that are perfect for your evening meal. Top recommendations are De.Wan 1958, Madam Kwan’s, K Fry and Mandarin Grill.
Alternatively, check out Tapak Urban Street Dining. Located just a short walk from Petronas, multiple food trucks congregate in an open space to serve a variety of international fare.
Day 2 in Kuala Lumpur
Begin with a view of the city from another amazing vantage point. Then, take a walk with monkeys. In the afternoon, cool off in one of KL’s best shopping malls before indulging in a variety of local cuisine.
KL Tower
A fun place to include on a Kuala Lumpur travel itinerary, there are a multitude of activities at the KL Tower.
Completed in 1995 and rising to 1381 feet, it is still the 7th tallest freestanding tower in the world and provides the highest public viewing platform in the city.
With a ticket, it only takes a 54 second elevator ride to reach the top and an impressive 360-degree vista.
Other KL Tower attractions include the revolving restaurant, cultural shows, the F1 Experience, and the Forest Reserve and Eco Park.
In the Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve, nature still reigns despite the modern marvel rising above it. In fact, a rare 100-year-old Jelutong Tree stands alongside the tower in a protective enclosure.
The Forest Eco Park is an opportunity to stand amongst nature in the middle of the city. The tropical rainforest was designated a reserve in 1906 and is home to endangered plant species, birds and monkeys.
At night, the KL Tower lights can be seen from afar and the structure glows in a spectrum of colors in a synchronized show.
Shopping in Bukit Bintang
KL is a well-known shopping mecca – and with 3 days in Kuala Lumpur, there is plenty of time for retail therapy!
Bukit Bintang, which is located in the heart of the KL Golden Triangle, is best known for its high concentration of shopping malls and nightlife.
From the district’s main intersection – Jalan Sultan Ismail and Jalan Bukit Bintang – a plethora of stores are just steps away.
Fashionable clothing, electronics and accessories by recognizable brands (and knock-offs) fill the shelves of the shops that are frequented by both locals and tourists.
Shopping is so much a part of the KL culture that the malls themselves have become Kuala Lumpur sightseeing places. It’s also a great opportunity to bask in the cool air conditioning for just a moment!
Top Bukit Bintang Malls
Pavilion Kuala Lumpur: Housing a variety of stores, shoppers will find posh icons, like Hermes, Gucci, and Prada.
Lot 10: Recently redeveloped, this mall is home to popular clothing stores, such as Zara and H&M.
Low Yat Plaza: This entire multi-level center is dedicated to gadgets; a tech geek paradise!
Sungei Wang Plaza: Bukit Bintang’s oldest mall offers merchandise for budget shoppers.
Starhill Gallery: One of Kuala Lumpur’s most glamorous shopping centers with many luxury retailers.
Berjaya Times Square: One of the largest malls in the world…with Malaysia’s biggest indoor theme park occupying the upper floors (including roller coasters).
Jalan Alor Food Street
Jalan Alor is a place where both foreigners and residents go for a fun experience in KL dining. In fact, we feel eating here is a must for your 3 Days in Kuala Lumpur Itinerary!
During the day there isn’t much going on food-wise, but it is a great time to seek out street art. After 5pm, an incredible number of hawker stalls dishing up local Malay and Chinese cuisine line the street.
Some vendors offer food-on-the-go options, while others serve heaping platters to customers sitting on low stools at plastic tables in a hustle and bustle ambiance.
We suggest just wandering and trying some of the exotic foods along the way. Looking for char kway teow with duck egg? You can find it here. Never tried durian fruit? This is your chance, if you can handle the smell!
Not interested in the oddities? No problem! Go for the dim sum, grilled skewers or handcrafted fried ice cream.
Changkat Bukit Bintang Bars
KL is a far cry from the 24/7 party of Bangkok, but Changkat is an exception. The street – actually, just a short section – is absolutely chock-a-block with places for drinks.
If you are wondering what to do in Kuala Lumpur at night, the bars on Changkat might be the answer.
They all offer al fresco seating along the street and a few have upstairs balconies. Some of the best Kuala Lumpur nightclubs (which seem to be in constant rotation) are typically found here, as well.
Day 3 in Kuala Lumpur
On day 3 of your KL Itinerary, explore the beautiful city gardens. Then, set off to discover three of the most interesting districts in Kuala Lumpur.
Perdana Botanical Gardens
The Kuala Lumpur Perdana Botanical Garden (formerly known as Taman Tasik Perdana and Lake Gardens) is a lovely respite in the congested city.
Ranking as KL’s oldest garden, the 250-acre space was first designed in the 1880s. Today, the public park is a popular recreational area.
You could fill your entire Kuala Lumpur 3 Day Itinerary with the attractions in the Perdana Garden! We recommend choosing a few sights that are most interesting to you.
The National Monument & ASEAN Sculpture Garden is dedicated to those who died for Malaysia’s freedom. The 50 foot bronze sculpture of soldiers (representing leadership, suffering, unity, vigilance, strength, courage and sacrifice) was built in 1966.
The sculpted shrubs in the Sunken Garden create a beautiful work of art and are one of the most popular places to visit at the KL Botanic Gardens.
With more than 6,000 orchids representing 800 species, the Orchid Garden includes both common and rare orchids.
The hibiscus is the national flower of Malaysia; the Hibiscus Garden is located near an old colonial building and features two fountains.
The Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park is home to more than 5,000 butterflies (of which 120 species are accounted for), as well as a multitude of other flora and fauna.
The 21-acre KL Bird Park is an impressive aviary and one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions.
The National Museum, housed in a traditional Malay structure, has four main galleries of displays that focus on the country’s history, culture and traditions.
Brickfields and Little India
Once the center of the brick-making industry and now KL’s transportation hub, Brickfields is home to a smattering of colonial architecture, a harmonious multi-cultural community and vibrant Little India.
Many tourists using public transportation in Kuala Lumpur pass through Brickfields and don’t even realize it; the KL Sentral Station lies within the district.
Those interested in sightseeing Brickfields should make sure to see these buildings.
- Vivekananda Ashramam: One of the oldest Indian heritage buildings in KL.
- Maha Vihara Temple: Buddhist place of worship dating to 1896.
- Sri Kandaswamy: Multilevel Hindu temple with ornate columns.
See More: To discover additional places, use this free self-guided heritage walk of Brickfields.
The real gem, however, is the colorful streets of Little India. This enclave of restaurants (offering savory banana-leaf curries) and textile shops (selling stylish saris) is full of energy.
Bright colors decorate the streets and Bollywood music fills the air. It’s one of the best places to wander on a visit to Kuala Lumpur.
Merdeka Square
Merdeka Square – which translates to Independence Square and locally called Dataran Merdeka – is a large, open grassy field.
The square and many of the surrounding structures were built by the British in the late 1800s and were used for both police training and cricket matches.
On August 30, 1957, it was here that the Malaysian flag was raised in independence from the British for the first time. There’s a lot to unpack here, we’ll highlight a few top spots next.
Built in the 1890s for the British government, the Sultan Abdul Samad Building is the most prominent and ornate structure on the square.
Founded in 1884 by the British elite, the Selangor Club has a long history and has become a KL institution. You can admire it from the outside, as entry is for members-only.
Housed in an exceptional heritage building that dates to 1896, the Textile Museum features exhibits that tell the story of KL through fabric and clothing.
Designed in the Early English Gothic style, St. Mary’s Cathedral dates to the late 1800s and features a grand organ.
Local Tip: Check out more of the area with this Free Walking Tour of Merdeka.
Jamek Mosque
Also called ‘Friday Mosque,’ is the oldest mosque in KL and is located where the Klang and Gombak Rivers meet.
Built in 1909 using ancient Moorish, Islam and Mughal architectural styles, it was the premier mosque in the country until National Mosque was built.
It is open to visitors (outside of prayer times) and guests need to wear appropriate attire (robes and scarves are available for use at the entrance).
Top Tip: For the best views of the mosque, go to the lookout point over the river on Leboh Pasar Besar. After dark, there are special light and water features.
Kuala Lumpur Chinatown
Markets, temples, shophouses and speakeasys make Chinatown an entertaining spot both day and night.
We recommend arriving here in the late afternoon so you can see the neighborhood in daylight and after dark. The following are places you won’t want to miss and can be seen in order.
Central Market
The Art Deco Central Market building dates to 1937, but the site has hosted a marketplace since 1888. The original wet market has transformed from a gritty affair into a sleek establishment for all to enjoy.
Kasturi Walk
The shophouses on Kasturi Walk were built in the 1930s in the neo-classical style. A couple shops on the street still sell traditional Chinese medicine and herbs.
Guan di Temple
This classic red Chinese temple was built in 1888 and is dedicated to a warrior. While the architecture is striking, many come to see the Guan Dao – a sword that you lift or touch for special blessings.
Sri Maha Mariamman Temple
Built in 1873, this is the oldest Hindu temple in Kuala Lumpur. The incredibly ornate Raja Gopuram (tower) was added in 1968.
Petaling Street Market & KL Chinatown Bars
People from all walks of life come to Petaling Street to haggle over prices and feast on Chinese fare. However, we liked the vibe on Jalan Hang Lekir better.
People-watching from a low stool at a plastic table on Jalan hang Lekir Street while sipping a few cold beers is a great way to spend an evening in KL!
Kuala Lumpur Map of Sights
Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our KL Map below. Blue markers are sights, purple are places to eat and drink, red is for shopping and green is outdoor spaces.
What To Eat in Kuala Lumpur
I was equally excited and intimidated about eating in Kuala Lumpur. We love trying new food and the multicultural city boasts an array of cuisine…most of which is spicy.
As I do not like spicy food (as in, I can’t handle it), I had to abandon my normal whimsical ways of ordering foreign food.
This only put a slight damper in our feasting, as most places were accommodating to my requests. Fortunately, Chinese food is as prevalent in KL as Malay food – and is simpler to get not spicy.
We gorged on Jalan Alor Food Street (and at Mongolian BBQ on Tengkat Tong Shin – look for the green lanterns) and in Chinatown.
Our personal pick for Malaysian fare is Kedai Mamak Husin, where the staff oh-so patiently answered my long list of inquiries regarding spiciness!
Tour Kuala Lumpur Tours & Day Trips
Our suggestions of what to see in Kuala Lumpur in 3 days covers the top sights. However, hiring a KL tour guide can enhance your 3 days in KL.
KL City Tours – You can book a highly-rated half-day walking tour, bike excursion or KL Food Tour!
KL Day Tour from KLIA – Have a long layover in KL? Hire a private guide and get out of the airport and see the city sights!
Historic Malacca Day Trip – Learn the history and culture of the beautiful old port city, Malacca, on this full day trip!
Genting Highlands and Cable Car – Experience the Genting Highlights, home to Southeast Asia’s longest cable car, a theme park and casino!
Batu Caves and Rainforest Tour – After exploring the caves, journey into the Taman Negara Rainforest. This excursion includes walking in the treetop canopy, visiting a local village, a boat ride and lunch on a floating cafe!
Waterfall and Caves Tour – Swim underneath the 7-tiered Kanching Waterfalls and visit 2 caves on this tour!
Planning a Trip to Kuala Lumpur
As you make your Kuala Lumpur Itinerary plans, you need to stay organized. Use our Travel Planning Printables to keep track of all the details of your vacation to Malaysia!
More Destinations for your Malaysia Itinerary
Planning a trip to multiple destinations in Malaysia and the region? We’ve got your covered! In addition to our suggested itinerary for Kuala Lumpur, use these guides to help plan your trip.
- Hoping over to Penang? Great! Get ready with our Penang Itinerary!
- Also visiting Johor Bahru? Read our detailed Guide to JB!
- Heading to Singapore as well? Good on ya! Check out our Ultimate SG Itinerary!
Where To Stay in Kuala Lumpur
Personally, we believe Bukit Bintang is the best area to stay in KL. It’s within walking distance to many sights, but away from the crowds.
That said, those who want to be in the heart of the action and closest to Kuala Lumpur attractions should stay in the KLCC.
While there are many hotels in Kuala Lumpur to choose from, we are featuring a few that are raved-about by fellow travelers.
Traders Hotel is a posh property and amenities include a spa, pool and 2 on-site dining options – including SkyBar with skyline views!
Everything about the Grand Hyatt KL is exceptional. Rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows and comfortable beds and it gets rave reviews for breakfasts!
The modern ANSA Hotel has a fantastic location and is close to a Monorail Station. Additionally, the rooms are clean and a good value for money.
Offering both dorm stays and private rooms, 1000 Miles Hotel is a solid option for budget travelers and near bus and rail lines.
Read our tips for How To Find the Best Rates, then start your search on Booking.com!
KL Airbnb
On our second (and much longer) trip to Kuala Lumpur, we stayed in a fantastic Airbnb. We found this apartment in a new tower complex in Bukit Bintang.
The features that we enjoyed most about the property were the infinity pool on the 6th floor – and the jacuzzi and garden on the 42nd floor rooftop deck (with incredible KL views).
Getting to Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) is home base for Malaysia Airlines as well as low-cost carrier Air Asia. All global airlines operate at KLA1, while Air Asia is out of a dedicated terminal, KLA2.
Start your search for the best flight deals on Skyscanner – but first get our Tips for Finding Cheap Airfare!
What To Pack for Kuala Lumpur
Now that you are ready to go to Kuala Lumpur, it’s time to pack your bags. We are sharing a few packing hacks below so grab our FREE Checklist, too!
Shoes for Travel
Between the heat and the uneven pavement, Kuala Lumpur is not an easy city to walk around. As we cover some ground in our 3 Day Itinerary – it’s essential to have the right travel shoes!
I (Sarah) have traveled with these shoes by New Balance and Reef. Kris prefers wearing shoes by Merrell and Sanuk.
Travel Camera
Rather than relying on your phone, upgrade to an actual camera. We travel with a Canon Rebel, which comes with a robust kit of accessories and is a great budget camera option.
Day Pack
Whether you travel to Malaysia with a backpack or a suitcase, you’ll also want a great day bag to carry your everyday travel essentials in!
Malaysia Travel Insurance
When things go sideways, insurance may help with costs. If you haven’t already obtained coverage, consider traveling protected with World Nomads.
Start planning your trip to Malaysia! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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